Cenotaph to be lit in red for WW1 tribute

Knockagh Monument

A solemn centennial commemoration of the start of the First World War will be held in Carrickfergus on Monday evening.

The Borough Council, in partnership with the Royal British Legion and Friends of the 36th (Ulster Division) Carrickfergus, has organised a special church service to take place at Quay Lane.

A short parade and wreath-laying ceremony will take place from 7.30pm at the Cenotaph before guests make their way to Quay Lane for the commencement of the service.

A number of historical exhibits from the time will be on display on Castle Green and the Schomberg Band from Kilkeel, in authentic World War One uniform, will be performing.

At 10.00pm, Knockagh Monument, the County Antrim War Memorial above Greenisland, will be lit for an hour as part of the national ‘Lights Out’ campaign and the borough’s beacon to remember those that left and did not return home.

At 11.00pm, the Cenotaph will be lit red as a longer term tribute to the fallen.

In order to facilitate the events and to minimise noise, the organisers point out that a number of temporary traffic diversions will be in operation from the castle roundabout to Green Street from 8.45pm until 10.15pm approximately.

The Mayor, Alderman Charles Johnston, said: “This is a very significant commemoration for many families in Carrickfergus Borough and I would invite the community to join in the evening’s programme.

“I would also appeal to motorists for their co-operation on this solemn occasion.”